Step into Winter: Embracing the Outdoors in Pakistan

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Mehreen Khan

As the cold settles into the northern half of the country, most of us begin retreating indoors. But winter — or even just the cooler season — is not a time to hibernate.

It is an opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors, boost physical and mental health, and live more sustainably by walking more and driving less. With the right mindset and simple precautions, winter walking can become a powerful eco-living practice for individuals and communities across Pakistan.

Why Winter Walking Matters

Whether you live in a city like Islamabad, a hill station like Murree, or a village in northern Punjab or KP, cooler weather should not mean cutting yourself off from nature. In fact, walking in winter can:

• Improve cardiovascular health as your body works harder to stay warm

• Strengthen immunity, reducing the risk of winter colds and flu

• Reduce screen time and anxiety, promoting better mental wellbeing

• Offer a break from gas heaters and electric appliances, lowering energy use

• Foster a personal connection to the natural rhythms of the season

Most importantly, walking is a zero-emissions form of transport. Replacing short rickshaw or car rides with walking reduces fuel use, cuts pollution, and promotes a more climate-conscious lifestyle.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Winter Walk

Dress smartly and sustainably: Layer your clothing—use breathable cotton or wool near the skin, followed by warm fleece or shawls, and top with a wind-resistant outer layer. Many second-hand markets in cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Quetta offer affordable jackets and sweaters. Footwear should be sturdy and slip-resistant, especially in hilly or damp areas.

Time your walk wisely: Winter days are shorter. Try to walk during daylight hours—preferably morning or early afternoon—for safety and sunlight. Avoid walking during smoggy hours, particularly in areas like Lahore where winter pollution peaks in early mornings and late evenings.

Be aware of surroundings: Choose well-lit, familiar routes. Parks, community walking tracks, or even open fields on the outskirts of towns provide good options. Walking with a friend, family member, or even your dog (if you have one) can offer safety and companionship.

Hydrate and warm up: Even in winter, dehydration is a risk. Drink water before and after your walk. Begin with some light stretching or warm-up movements to prevent injury in colder muscles.

Listen to nature: Leave the headphones behind occasionally and tune into the natural world. Notice the birds that are active in cooler months, the change in leaves, or the scent of wood smoke. This is mindfulness in motion.

Urban Challenges and How to Overcome Them

In many Pakistani cities, walking is hindered by:

• Lack of proper sidewalks

• Traffic congestion and pollution

• Stray animals or poor lighting at night

To address this, communities can push for more walkable urban design: footpaths, pedestrian crossings, public parks, and green belts. But until that happens, smaller actions can help: walk in groups, wear reflective clothing, and share safe routes with neighbours.

Religious institutions, schools, and mohalla committees can also play a role in encouraging safe walking by organizing community walks or issuing local safety guidelines.

Eco-Living Starts with Small Steps

Winter is not just a season — it is a state of mind. Choosing to walk outdoors, even just a few times a week, is a small act with big ripple effects. It improves your health, lowers your energy footprint, and reconnects you to your local environment.

In a world where climate change and air pollution are growing concerns — especially in cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Faisalabad — simple choices like walking instead of driving can have long-term benefits. They foster resilience, reduce emissions, and make us more aware of the ecosystems we live in.

So this October, step out into the crisp air. Invite a friend. Walk to the nearby park, mosque, or corner shop. Let your breath cloud the air and your footsteps echo with intention. In embracing winter walking, we do not just care for ourselves—we care for the Earth beneath our feet.